Bizarre Workplace Injuries That Can be Avoided

November 14, 2013
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Most modern-day professionals spend a big chunk of their day in the workplace. Desk jobs make up a large percentage of the global workforce and in recent years, the nature of these jobs has taken a toll on the health of these workers. Who knew that doing paperwork, taking calls and typing emails could cause such serious injuries?

What makes workplace-related injuries bizarre is the fact that they are often the result of doing even the most mundane office activities. However, with the right environment and equipment, these injuries can be avoided. For instance, the importance of an adjustable desk to prevent health issues should not be overlooked as it can greatly reduce the risk of stiffness, sore joints and back problems.

Another common problem that office workers experience is vision deterioration. Some of the symptoms include seeing white flashes of light all throughout the day and experiencing severe headaches. This is typically caused by spending too much time in front of a computer screen for prolonged periods. Using an adjustable desk can help avoid this type of problem by restricting the distance from the computer screen so that it sits 18 to 30 inches from the eyes of the worker. It is also suggested to take a break from the screen every few hours to give you eyes a rest.

Another strange workplace injury is the development of Repetitive Strain Injury or RSI, which can even happen to physically fit people. Victims of RSI will experience severe pain in the elbows, arms, wrists and fingers. In more serious cases where the nerves are affected the employee will have to seek medical help. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an example of a nerve-related injury caused by continuous pressure placed on the median nerve. Pregnant women, diabetic, arthritic and obese people are more prone to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Many office workers are unaware that their normal, everyday tasks actually have the potential to cause RSI. Finding the most comfortable ergonomic position while working, stretching and taking frequent breaks can also help avoid RSI.

A lesser known workplace injury is called bursitis. This happens when the bursa, a small sac of fluid found all over the body, is inflamed. The bursa acts as a cushion in areas where body parts like bone, muscle, tendon, ligament or skin rub against each other. When repeated pressure is placed on a bursa, bursitis develops. Victims experience pain and swelling and the skin on the inflamed area will appear red with a possibility of infection.

Something as simple as using an adjustable desk or office chair can help prevent these workplace injuries. Choose one that has ample space for your work supplies and make sure that the items you frequently use are within arm’s reach so that you don’t have to constantly bend or twist your body. An ergonomic chair also has adjustable features such height and angle of the back rest, height of the arms and lumbar support. A chair with a base of five wheels will allow you to easily move around without falling over and hurting yourself.

Spending long hours in a sedentary job cannot be avoided sometimes, so investing in proper office equipment is extremely important to preserve the health, disposition and general well-being of a worker.

Amanda Walters – This article was written by Amanda Walters, an experienced freelance writer and regular contributor to Huffington Post. Follow her here: @Amanda_W84